Clinical trials in Greece are on the rise, yet patient participation remains limited as misinformation, uncertainty and a lack of trust continue to deter many people from taking part in research that could provide access to cutting-edge treatments and comprehensive medical monitoring at no cost.
Comments such as “I didn’t know what clinical trials were” and “I wasn’t sure, I was afraid” reflect one of the most significant challenges facing clinical research in Greece: widespread misconceptions and insufficient public understanding of how clinical studies operate and what safeguards are in place for participants.
The issue was highlighted during an event at the Ministry of Health marking World Clinical Trials Day and the launch of the awareness campaign “I Participate Because I Have… Knowledge – Benefit – Trust.” The initiative was organized by the Alliance for the Promotion of the Value of Clinical Trials, which brings together the Hellenic Patients Association, the Hellenic Association of Clinical Research Organizations (HACRO) and the Medical Society of Athens.
Clinical Trials Expanding in Greece
Recent years have seen notable growth in clinical research activity. Data presented at the event showed that the number of clinical studies approved in Greece increased by 75% since 2019. A total of 272 studies received approval in 2025, compared with 212 in 2024 and 158 in 2019.
However, organizers stressed that increasing the number of studies alone is not enough if patients remain reluctant to participate.
According to speakers at the event, clinical trials serve not only as a pathway for developing new medicines but also as a mechanism for improving healthcare systems. Participants can gain access to innovative treatments before they become commercially available and benefit from close supervision by specialized medical teams in a highly regulated environment.
Treatments, examinations and medical follow-up are provided without financial burden to patients, while participants are also covered by mandatory insurance against potential harm or medical errors.
Lack of Information Fuels Hesitation
Experts noted that many Greeks still have limited understanding of what clinical trials involve, how they are conducted and what rights participants possess. This knowledge gap continues to reinforce myths and misconceptions, leading many patients to dismiss participation without fully considering the potential benefits.
The consequences extend beyond individual patients. Limited participation reduces access to innovative therapies, restricts opportunities for enhanced medical monitoring and hampers the development of a stronger clinical research ecosystem in Greece.
Clinical studies also contribute to the education and training of healthcare professionals. Between 2022 and 2024, 162 physicians received specialized training through clinical research programs, while additional administrative personnel and primary healthcare researchers were trained in 2025.
The strict protocols governing clinical trials were highlighted as a factor that helps minimize the risk of medical errors and improve overall standards of care.
Government Sees Strategic Value
Health Minister Adonis Georgiadis described clinical research as a strategic priority for the ministry, citing its role in accelerating patient access to innovative treatments, strengthening Greece’s scientific community and attracting investment and employment opportunities.
While acknowledging improvements in the number of studies conducted in Greece, he noted that the country still lags behind in terms of investment volumes. He expressed confidence that recent legislative reforms and collaboration between authorities, researchers and patient organizations would help attract more significant clinical research projects.
Lilian Venetia Vildiridi, Secretary General for Health Services, described clinical trial development as a key indicator of scientific, social and economic progress. She emphasized the importance of providing patients with accurate and evidence-based information as a prerequisite for building trust.
Building Confidence Remains the Main Challenge
The President of the National Organization for Medicines (EOF), Spyros Sapounas, outlined measures introduced to streamline approval procedures, including strengthening the National Ethics Committee and establishing the National Biomedical Research Registry.
He stressed that Greece’s objective is not only to increase the number of clinical trials but also to attract high-quality studies supported by transparency, reliability and strict oversight.
HACRO President Evangelia Koraki pointed to Greece’s competitive advantages, including highly skilled scientific personnel, experienced medical teams and hospitals with broad geographical coverage. Nevertheless, she identified public awareness and trust as the next major challenge for the sector.
Medical Society of Athens President Eleftherios Thireos described clinical trials as the essential bridge between scientific research and innovative treatments, providing the most reliable evidence on safety and effectiveness while offering patients access to new therapies and intensive medical supervision.
Meanwhile, Hellenic Patients Association Vice President Katerina Koutsogianni said many citizens remain unaware of both the nature of clinical studies and the rights and benefits associated with participation. She stressed that the new information campaign aims to provide clear, reliable and scientifically validated information to help people make informed healthcare decisions.
